TriJenn wrote:It would be good for me to do this since I have a hard time even changing a tyre. I could actually learn something..
Good on ya for wanting to learn more about bikes! I recommend learning how to change a tube and tire first, then move on to the bigger project.
Is such a project cost-effective? Not always. I bought a used Specialized Rockhopper XC mountain bike, and built it up on stuff mainly purchased from eBay. Would it have been cheaper to buy something brand-new with all the stuff on it? Yes. Did I learn heaps about bike maintenance? Yes!
The most important question here is about the frame. Is it a good, solid frame in good condition? If the frame casts even the slightest bit of doubt, then stop now and don't bother. If it's a quality (but heavier than the sun) frame that is solid, then go for it.
Old bikes are not always all they are cracked up to be, though. I love CotR's 18-year-old Schwinn that I now use as a commuter. But when I busted the rear wheel in a pothole, it took me about six-wheels to find a replacement. I needed something narrow enough to fit the old racing frame, that would take a freewheel. Not as easy as it sounds, unfortunately; not in Halifax, anyway.
If you have the parts kicking around from the tri bike, then yeah, give it a go, see what you can convert over. But use up what you have, or can pick up cheap/free from people discarding old stuff before spending a lot of money on it.
